At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and nurture children under five while learning through hands-on experience.
- Company: Join Childbase Partnership, a leading childcare provider with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, enjoy 23 days paid leave, and receive childcare discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in early years education and make a difference in children's lives.
- Qualifications: Passion for childcare and willingness to learn; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 16640 - 26500 £ per year.
Position Overview
Early Years Apprentice at Childbase Partnership (Nene Valley Day Nursery, Northampton, NN1 5BD). This apprenticeship is part of a 37‑hour week, 52‑week contract with varied shifts Monday‑Friday from 07:30‑18:30.
Start date window: August 18‑September 18, 2026
Salary: £8.00 per hour to start, rising to £10.41 after six months, and £12.74 after 12 months for those aged 21 or over.
Contract: 52 weeks a year, 37.5 hours per week.
Program and Training
- Blend of practical experience and theory delivered by a trainer/assessor and regular group training sessions (every 6‑8 weeks).
- Qualification: Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or Level 3 Early Years Educator.
- English and Maths Functional Skills if required (online assessment).
- Paediatric first aid (valid for three years).
Eligibility & Requirements
- Valid Right to Work in the UK and National Insurance Number.
- Photographic ID (passport or driving licence).
- Computer access for online assessment and coursework.
- Resident UK for at least three years.
- Commute within reasonable distance of nursery, and willing to travel to Newport Pagnell for group training.
- No visa sponsorship.
- Enhanced DBS check required.
- 16+ years old (apprenticeship rules).
- We consider reasonable adjustments.
Candidate Profile
- Passionate about building a career in early years, caring for children under five.
- Curious, eager to learn practical tasks, creating engaging activities linked to the early years curriculum.
- Observes, assesses, and records children’s progress.
- Nurturing and empathetic, prioritises safety, and follows policies and procedures.
- Manages time effectively, balancing work and studies.
- Collaborative, strong verbal and written communication, building relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
Benefits
- 23 days paid leave per annum (pro‑rata), rising to 28 days with length of service.
- Paid bank holidays.
- Childcare discount: 75% (or 40% for grandparents) at any Childbase nursery.
- Long‑service rewards, qualification bonuses, and retail discounts.
- Wellbeing support: free meals, mental health, occupational health support, flu jabs, eye care vouchers, free will‑writing service.
- Team inset days and online training, plus permanent Qualified Nursery Practitioner role upon successful completion.
Childcare Apprenticeship in Northampton employer: Childbase Partnership Limited
Childbase Partnership is an exceptional employer for those passionate about early years education, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a comprehensive apprenticeship programme at Nene Valley Day Nursery in Northampton, employees benefit from hands-on training, generous leave, and significant childcare discounts, all while working towards a fulfilling career in childcare. The commitment to nurturing talent and providing long-term career opportunities makes this an ideal place for aspiring Early Years Practitioners.
Contact Details:
Childbase Partnership Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Apprenticeship in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take a stroll around Nene Valley Day Nursery if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment shows genuine interest and helps you feel more comfortable during the chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. This will help you articulate your passion for early years education and demonstrate your nurturing qualities in a relaxed setting.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! Think of a fun activity you could do with children under five and be ready to share it during your interview. This not only highlights your enthusiasm but also your ability to engage with kids.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that keeps you on their radar and shows your professionalism.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Apprenticeship in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children! Share any relevant experiences or activities that highlight your love for early years education. This will help us understand why you're the perfect fit for our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for, like your ability to create engaging activities or your strong communication skills.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion shines through without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Childbase Partnership Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Early Years Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the early years curriculum and be ready to discuss how you can create engaging activities for children under five. This shows your passion and commitment to the field.
✨Show Your Caring Side
During the interview, highlight your nurturing and empathetic qualities. Share examples of how you've cared for children or worked in a team setting. This will demonstrate that you prioritise safety and can build strong relationships with both children and colleagues.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Learning Style
Since this apprenticeship involves a blend of practical experience and theory, be prepared to talk about how you learn best. Mention any previous experiences where you balanced work and studies, and how you plan to manage your time effectively during the apprenticeship.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training sessions, the support available for apprentices, or how they measure children's progress. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
